Truro, Cornwall's capital, is the southernmost city on the British mainland. Narrow cobbled streets cluster around the Gothic Revival Cathedral with its towering triple spires. As befits its status, Truro has an impressive arts venue, Hall for Cornwall, and a first-rate Royal Cornwall Museum. Once an important port for tin mining, Lemon Quay has since drifted into obscurity. The pleasant paved area is lined with department stores, cafés and the Pannier Market. It frequently hosts festivals, events and Victorian markets.
The graceful city is surrounded by an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which extends southeast to the scenic Roseland Peninsula. This Heritage Coast is a hidden gem, quietly enjoying pretty villages, tiny harbours and beautiful sandy coves. Gorgeous beaches for swimming, sandcastles and watersports stretch from Pentewan Sands to Towan Beach near idyllic St Mawes. The scenic coastal path connects tiny fishing harbours at Portscatho and Mevagissey while Falmouth, with the third-deepest natural harbour in the world, celebrates its heritage in the National Maritime Museum on the Quay.
Inland, sheltered valleys hide long-established communities such as Veryan with its 13th century church and circular thatched cottages. The mild, damp climate is perfect for outstanding gardens, such as Caerhays Castle and National Trust's Trelissick Gardens.
The Truro and Fal rivers flows into Carrick Roads, guarded by Henry VIII's Pendennis Castle and perfect for river cruises, kayaking, sailing and paddleboarding. And don't miss a trip on the historic King Harry Ferry between Feock and Philleigh, said to be one of the most scenic in the world.
Here's our selection of the best holiday homes around Truro and the Roseland Peninsula...